Rishikesh, the “Yoga Capital of the World,” is where the Ganges flows clear from the Himalayas, yogis meditate under sacred banyan trees, and adventurers take the leap into white-water rapids. Whether you’re here for spirituality, thrill, or just a laid-back riverside vibe, Rishikesh offers it all.

What to See & Do in Rishikesh

1. Laxman Jhula & Ram Jhula

• Iconic suspension bridges offering panoramic views of the Ganges.

• Best for morning or evening walks when the light is soft.

• Tip: Cafes on either side offer great views for sunset.

2. Triveni Ghat – Ganga Aarti

• Every evening, priests perform a mesmerizing aarti with lamps and chants.

• Arrive early to get a seat close to the river.

• Best time: Around sunset.

3. The Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)

• Once the retreat of The Beatles, now a colorful graffiti-filled site.

• Entry: ₹150 for Indians, ₹600 for foreigners.

• Great for photography and a peaceful walk.

4. Neer Garh Waterfall

• A refreshing escape from the town.

• Easy 20–30 minute hike to reach the falls.

• Ideal for a morning visit to avoid crowds.

5. Adventure Sports

• White-water rafting (Grade II–IV rapids) on the Ganges.

• Bungee jumping & giant swing in Mohan Chatti.

• Kayaking and cliff jumping for adrenaline seekers.

6. Yoga & Meditation Retreats

• Drop-in classes at Parmarth Niketan, Omkarananda Ganga Sadan, or Anand Prakash Yoga Ashram.

• Multi-day retreats for deeper learning.

7. Parmarth Niketan Ashram

• Largest ashram in Rishikesh with over 1,000 rooms.

• Famous for its Ganga Aarti (slightly less crowded than Triveni Ghat).

• Offers yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, and spiritual talks.

8. Vashishta Gufa (Vashishta Cave)

• Ancient meditation cave by the Ganges, believed to be where sage Vashishta meditated.

• Peaceful riverside surroundings ideal for silent contemplation.

• About 25 km from Rishikesh — best reached by taxi or bike.

9. Kunjapuri Devi Temple

• Hilltop temple with spectacular sunrise views over the Himalayas.

• Requires a short hike or can be reached by road.

• Popular for trekking routes ending in Rishikesh.

10. Tera Manzil Temple (Trimbakeshwar Temple)

• 13-storey temple with panoramic views of Laxman Jhula and the Ganges.

• Each floor has different shrines dedicated to Hindu deities.

11. Rajaji National Park

• Home to elephants, leopards, deer, and over 300 bird species.

• Safari options available; best visited in the morning.

• Located about 15 km from Rishikesh.

12. Gita Bhawan

• Large ashram complex with free lodging for pilgrims.

• Houses paintings and scriptures of Hindu epics.

• Great riverside spot for quiet reflection.

13. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

• Dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in a forested area 32 km from Rishikesh.

• Popular pilgrimage site, especially during Shravan month.

14. Byasi

• Small riverside village with adventure camps.

• Good stopover for rafting trips or nature stays.

15. Mohan Chatti

• Known as Rishikesh’s adventure hub with lots of luxury camps around.

• Home to India’s highest bungee jumping platform (83 meters) by Jumpin Heights.

• Also offers giant swing and flying fox activities.

• Scenic countryside location surrounded by forest and hills, about 25 km from town.

Where to Eat in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is purely vegetarian and alcohol-free, but that doesn’t mean boring. From Ayurvedic thalis to smoothie bowls, the food here is soulful.

🌿 Shambala Café

• Rooftop with Ganges views.

• Try: Vegan pancakes, falafel platters, masala chai.

🌿 Little Buddha Café

• Iconic riverside café.

• Try: Spinach-mushroom momos, cold coffee, pizza.

🌿 Freedom Cafe

• Bohemian interiors, healthy menu.

• Nearby Lakshman Jhula with Ganga view

• Try: Smoothie bowls, vegan pasta, herbal teas.

🌿 Chotiwala Restaurant

• Nearby Ram jhula

• Traditional North Indian thali experience.

• Try: Rajma-chawal, paneer butter masala.

🌿 Tat Café

• Cozy, spiritual vibe.

• Try: Hummus plate, tofu scramble.

🌿 Geeta Bhawan (Ram Jhula

• Try poori sabzi, Dhokla or sweets
• Very cheap price
• Religious vibes
•  No seating

🌿 Honey hut Bakery

•  Nearby Lakshman Jhula
• Eggless and use of honey instead of sugar
• Taste is amazing

🌿 Rawat and Bhandari restaurant

• Local eatery
• Indian food 
• Reasonable prices 

Best Hostels in Rishikesh

🛏️ Live Free Hostel

• Location: Near Laxman Jhula.

• Features: Dorms & privates, café, yoga sessions, live music.

• Why stay: Social, budget-friendly, close to cafes & Ganges.

• Check price

🛏️ Moustache Rishikesh

• Location: Tapovan.

• Features: Rooftop café, river views, co-working area.

• Why stay: Great for digital nomads.

• Check price

🛏️ Zostel Rishikesh

• Location: Near Tapovan, Lakshman Jhula, Mohanchatti.

• Features: Dorms & privates, in-house activities, café.

• Why stay: Backpacker favorite, great for meeting people.

• Lakshman Jhula, Check price
• Tapovan Check price
• Zostel plus, Mohan chatti, Check price

🛏️ Gostops Rishikesh

• Location: Near Lakshman Jhula, Tapovan

• Features: Dorms & privates, in-house activities, 24 hrs. café.

• Why stay: Backpacker favorite, great for meeting people.

• For Lakshman jhula Check price
• For Tapovan, Check price

🛏️ Blue Jay Hostel

• Location: Tapovan

• Features: Clean modern dorms & privates, café, friendly staff.

• Why Stay: Comfortable stay with calm vibes.

• Check price

🛏️ Skyard Rishikesh

• Location: Tapovan

• Features: Rooftop café with mountain & river views, organized rafting trips.

• Why Stay: Great for adventure seekers.

• Check price

🛏️ Madpackers Rishikesh

• Location: Tapovan

• Features: Cozy dorms, common lounge, guided treks.

• Why Stay: Warm, homely feel with active community events.

• Check price

🛏️ Bunk Stay Rishikesh

• Location: Near Laxman Jhula

• Features: Rooftop café overlooking Ganges, game nights, yoga classes.

• Why Stay: Fun and vibrant with scenic views.

• Check price

Best deals on hotels in Rishikesh, Click now.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: October–April (Pleasant weather, rafting season is October–June).

• Getting There: Closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun, 21 km). Nearest railway station is Haridwar (25 km).

• Local Transport: Walk, auto-rickshaw, or rent a scooter.

• Respect Local Culture: Modest dressing near temples & ghats, no alcohol or meat in town.

Ready to plan your Rishikesh adventure?
From serene yoga mornings to adrenaline-pumping bungee jumps, Rishikesh has it all. Book your stay, find the best experiences, and make your trip unforgettable — all on Tournami.com. 🌿✨